holds a Degree in Geography and Regional Planning from New University of Lisbon and a Ph.D in Land Use Planning and Management from University of the Azores in Portugal. She teaches Geography, Spatial Planning, Legislation and Environmental Management at the University of the Azores. With over 25 years of experience in land use planning and environmental impact assessments, her current research includes coastal zone management plans, coastal hazards and mitigation measures, climate change impacts and implications, marine protected areas, and marine spatial planning. She has participated in many research projects and published numerous technical reports, proceedings and peer-reviewed journals.